The order of middle school admission in the United States typically follows a sequential process. First, students are admitted based on their current school's enrollment status. If there are more applicants than available spots, a lottery system is often used to determine admission. Next, students who have siblings attending the same middle school are given priority. Finally, if there are still spots available, students are admitted based on their proximity to the school.

This order is in place to ensure fairness and equity in the admissions process. According to a report by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 85% of middle schools in the U.S. use a lottery system for admission when there are more applicants than available spots. This data highlights the prevalence of the lottery system in middle school admissions. Additionally, the preference for siblings attending the same school is supported by the fact that around 60% of middle schools give priority to siblings. The proximity-based admission process is also common, with many schools considering the distance between the student's home and the school as a factor in admission decisions.

The order of middle school admission is designed to balance various factors, including fairness, equity, and the convenience of students and their families. By prioritizing current students, schools aim to maintain a stable and consistent student body. The lottery system ensures that all applicants have an equal chance of being admitted, regardless of their background or circumstances. Giving priority to siblings helps to maintain family continuity within the school community. Lastly, considering proximity helps to ensure that students can attend school without excessive travel, which can impact their safety and academic performance.